20 Top Yuri/Lesbian Manga Picks Just For You!

Lesbian/Yuri manga presents a unique challenge to explore. With a plethora of titles available, selecting the noteworthy ones can be overwhelming. Additionally, many of these manga remain overshadowed by their animated versions.

If you’re searching for reading material in this genre, I empathize with the difficulties you’re facing.

This category encompasses various styles – from comedy, drama, fluff, to melodramatic antagonism.

Finding the perfect match for your taste can be challenging. Keeping this in mind, I’ve curated a list of some of the top yuri manga recommendations that are must-reads now, or at least should be on your radar for future reading.

1. Girl Friends:

Author: Milk Morinaga
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Girl Friends narrates the story of two high-school students as they navigate their friendship and the developing lesbian romance between them. It epitomizes a typical shoujo-ai series, interspersed with a touch of ecchi.

The plot centers on Mariko Kumakura, a lonely high-schooler grappling with her feelings for her vivacious best friend, Akiko Oohashi.

The story delves into Mari and Akko’s evolving friendship, which ultimately transforms into a romantic bond.

In terms of yuri elements, expect the clichéd initial hesitation from the main characters, as they take time to engage in more profound emotional experiences.

However, it remains engaging, as Mari’s encounters with her friends significantly contribute to the narrative. Furthermore, her character is crafted as a nuanced emotional individual, allowing readers to connect with her internal journey through the slow-burning romance.

2. Oniisama -e

Author: Riyoko Ikeda
Status: Completed

Within Class S literature, Oniisama -e (Dear Brother) stands as a timeless work. Despite its age, many agree that this almost 40-year-old manga showcases superior queer representation compared to contemporary titles!

The tropes established by Oniisama -e continue to influence numerous future lesbian manga, underscoring its importance in the genre.

Focusing on Nanako Misonoo, a girl entering the esteemed Seiran Academy—a girls’ school noted for its academic prestige—she soon finds herself entangled in rivalries and unvoiced emotions beneath the school’s polished facade.

Initially drawn to the institution’s charm, Nanako becomes embroiled in deception and betrayal.

Amid the chaos, she finds comfort in her exchanges with Takehiko Henmi, her former cram school instructor, using her letters to express her emotions and seek solace from her “onii-sama.”

Some regard this manga as bait, but I’ll let you determine that for yourself!

3. Bloom Into You:

Author: Nio Nakatani
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Bloom Into You might just be the most widely recognized lesbian manga, particularly due to its anime adaptation. However, the anime doesn’t encapsulate the entire storyline, making the manga a preferable choice.

This narrative aligns closely with Girl Friends, centering on two high-school friends exploring their same-sex attractions. Like Girl Friends, Bloom into You is also notorious for its slow pacing. However, it boasts an improved art style and deeper focus on supporting characters.

The protagonist, Yuu Koito, finds herself lacking romantic interest after receiving a confession from a boy. Unsure about love, she enters high school feeling perplexed.

It’s worth noting that she longs for a shoujo manga-style romance.

Then enters Touko Nanami, the charming student council president. Here’s where it gets intriguing. When Yuu seeks Touko’s advice on love, she gets a shock when Touko confesses her feelings for Yuu instead.

4. Shiroi Heya no Futari

Author: Ryouko Yamagishi
Status: Completed

Shiroi Heya no Futari (Couple in the White Room) is heralded as the first yuri manga published in Japan (1971). Thus, its status as a classic in the genre is well-founded.

While Queer work existed prior, Yamagishi herself had explored male homosexuality in her earlier projects. Nevertheless, a focused narrative on girls’ love was a path less traveled by many manga creators.

Set in an all-girls Catholic boarding school in France, the manga follows Resine, a sensitive girl, and her rebellious roommate, Simone. Initial disagreements lead to a deepened bond as they collaborate in a Romeo and Juliet play.

The narrative is tragically poignant, adhering to the common themes found in yuri titles from the 70s. The Romeo and Juliet play offers a notable clue.

In just 4 chapters, the story unfolds rapidly. Yet, despite its somber nature, the manga is an engaging read and a valuable addition to any yuri collection!

5. My Lesbian Experience With Loneliness

Author: Kabi Nagata
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

My Lesbian Experience With Loneliness is a personal narrative by author Kabi Nagata, chronicling her experiences as a lesbian woman confronting loneliness and depression.

Unlike other titles featured here, the emphasis is not on romantic themes; if that’s what you seek in your yuri manga, this may not be the right choice for you.

The art is intentionally minimal with vibrant pinks throughout. Refer to the panel below for a clearer picture.

Through this autobiography, Nagata courageously shares her battles with mental health, identity, and societal pressures, providing an intimate glimpse into her experiences.

Employing satire and deadpan humor to voice her story, her struggles are relatable and resonate deeply. At times, it feels so vulnerable that reading it can be challenging.

If you’re interested in more autobiographical stories, consider checking out The Girl That Can’t Get a Girlfriend by Mieri Hiranishi, featuring her quest to win back the girl who stole her heart.

6. How Do We Relationship

Author: Tamifull
Status: Ongoing
English Release: Viz Media

How Do We Relationship opens with an enticing sensual scene, immediately drawing in those who favor sapphic narratives. It provides a refreshing alternative for those uninterested in slow-burn romances.

By the conclusion of the second chapter, the central characters are already in a relationship. However, the crux of the story lies in questioning whether being together equates to being in love, which is a theme that Tamifull seeks to dissect.

The narrative revolves around college students Miwa and Saeko, whose personalities greatly contrast. Upon discovering their mutual attraction to girls, Saeko proposes they date, citing a lack of other options (her words, not mine).

Miwa consents, and the duo embarks on a journey to explore their feelings for each other.

This manga stands out due to its realistic representation of the hurdles faced when beginning a relationship, particularly for those figuring out their emotions while confronting societal expectations.

7. Even Though We Are Adults

Author: Takako Shimura
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Takako Shimura is a renowned name in the yuri manga sphere, credited with the immensely popular Aoi Hana. It truly challenged genre stereotypes.

Her more recent work, Even Though We Are Adults, shifts the focus towards adults rather than high schoolers, offering a refreshing perspective.

The narrative follows Ayano, a married elementary school teacher who encounters Akari, a charming woman, at a bar. Their chemistry is palpable from the start, and their relationship plunges into sapphic territory right from the first chapter. This one kicks off quickly!

However, Ayano’s marriage complicates her bond with Akari, bringing elements of infidelity into play.

Shimura’s realistic style is highlighted here, intertwining melodrama with emotional depth.

While her portrayal of Ayano’s bisexuality might invite criticism, and the visuals are somewhat basic, the narrative’s treatment of sensitive topics like cheating is skillful. A definite must-read title!

For a comparable read, check out I Love You So Much, I Hate You (English Release by Yen Press).

8. The Guy She Was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All

Author: Sumiko Arai
Status: Ongoing
English Release: Yen Press

HEAR ME OUT!! Yen Press recently released the first volume of this manga in November.

The story is unique and piqued my interest – a high school girl goes to a record store and develops a crush on the cashier. However, she fails to realize that this ‘guy’ is actually the quiet, studious girl sitting next to her in class.

The narrative unfolds as they bond over music and discover each other’s personalities.

The Guy She Was Interested in Wasn’t a Guy at All is light on drama or heavy emotions. It’s an easygoing read and offers wholesome moments through the characters’ interactions.

This yuri manga might not be as popular as others, but it’s noteworthy for the fantastic music suggestions presented within. As readers, we can share in the musical journey along with the characters!

Additionally, the author’s keen fashion sense is reflected in the character designs and styles, making it a frequent topic of admiration within the fandom.

9. She Loves To Cook, She Loves To Eat

Author: Sakaomi Yuzaki
Status: Ongoing
English Release: Yen Press

As mentioned, lesbian romance manga can take various forms. Here, cooking plays a central role in conjunction with the exploration of girls’ love. Winning a woman’s heart through cooking? You got it!

This story introduces Nomoto, who loves cooking, even under stress. One day, she makes more food than she can consume and invites her neighbor, Kasuga, over.

It turns out Kasuga is a food enthusiast, providing Nomoto with the perfect companion to savor her culinary creations. As they bond over meals, love blooms!

Once again, this is a slow-burn lesbian manga. Yet, the space between them offers delightful interactions. And yes, there’s plenty of mouthwatering food throughout!

She Loves To Cook, She Loves To Eat also addresses several social issues, weaving in strong feminist themes and tackling topics such as misogyny, particularly in the context of Nomoto’s cooking being typecast.

Additionally, it confronts traditional issues like body image and challenges notions of female appearance. A refreshing and essential read in the yuri genre!

10. Kase-san Series

Author: Hiromi Takashima
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Kase-san is a yuri manga series authored by Hiromi Takashima, focusing on the evolving relationship between Yui Yamada, a shy high school student passionate about the school’s garden, and Tomoka Kase, the enthusiastic track and field team star.

Despite their differing personalities, the two girls foster a close friendship that gradually blossoms into romance.

This manga also features two high-school girls, but it leans towards the wholesome and light-hearted side of storytelling.

Both characters develop affection for each other, highlighting a healthy relationship dynamic.

If you want an easy-going read without excessive drama (just 25 chapters), this is the perfect fit for you.

While it does address relevant issues along the way, it’s overall a smooth reading experience!! Bonus: there are sequels and side stories!

If you’re searching for a similarly relaxed slice of life yuri title, consider checking out Our Wonderful Days (English Release by Seven Seas).

11. Whisper Me a Love Song

Author: Eku Takeshima
Status: Ongoing
English Release: Kodansha USA

Whisper Me a Love Song is a high-school lesbian romance making a name for itself. This title returns us to the realm of slow-burn romances.

With an attractive art style, it opens in a heartwarming way. Its senpai-kouhai dynamics mirror that of Bloom Into You, but be prepared for drama and emotional twists if you decide to dive in.

The narrative begins with Himari Kino, a bright first-year student, who becomes enthralled by Yori Asanagi, a quiet upperclassman, after witnessing her band’s performance during the school opening ceremony.

When Himari exuberantly confesses her love to Yori, she realizes that Himari’s feelings resemble admiration more than romantic affection. This sets the stage for what comes next.

The exceptional art style is a significant highlight, serving as one of the main attractions of this series!! Ignore the anime adaptation for the moment!

12. Doughnuts Under A Crescent Moon

Author: Shio Usui
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Moving beyond high school romances, mature lesbian stories are increasingly gaining traction, so it’s no surprise to find another shakaijin yuri title featured here.

Doughnuts Under A Crescent Moon offers a sweet narrative while effectively portraying the struggles of a character uncertain of her sexual orientation.

The plot centers around Uno Hinako, an office employee yearning for the romantic love often depicted in shoujo manga (ring a bell?). Despite her efforts to fit into the ideal woman role, her attempts at conventional romances with men lead to disillusionment and a deterioration of her self-worth.

Enter Sato Asahi, Hinako’s intriguing senior at work. Asahi catches Hinako’s attention instantly. During a chance encounter where Hinako is found crying on a bench, Asahi offers her doughnuts, leading to a sharing of vulnerabilities.

As their connection deepens, Hinako is drawn to Asahi, prompting her to reconsider her views on love and relationships.

13. I Married My Female Friend

Author: Shio Usui
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Ah, another title from Shio Usui on the list. Interesting!

I Married My Female Friend (not to be confused with I Married My Best Friend…) is one I find equally as compelling, if not more, than Doughnuts, despite the latter’s popularity.

What I appreciate about this title is how it delicately explores the dynamics of living together and the evolving nature of relationships.

The narrative effectively showcases the joys and complexities of such an arrangement, captivating my attention completely. It reminded me a bit of How Do We Relationship.

The plot revolves around Kurumi and Ruriko, who, during their Coming of Age Day ceremony, agree to marry each other if they remain single five years later.

Their new life together proves to be more challenging as they confront the complexities of transitioning from friendship to a deeper partnership.

Overall, I Married My Female Friend makes for a delightful, wholesome read! Initially, I considered including Still Sick, but ultimately chose this one instead.

14. Run Away With Me Girl

Author: Battan
Status: Completed
English Release: Kodansha USA

Fair warning – Run Away With Me Girl tackles domestic abuse and other serious themes.

This underrated yuri gem is ripe for acknowledgement. It follows Maki and Midori, former high school sweethearts whose romance ended when Midori dismissed it as a phase and moved on post-graduation.

Fast forward a decade, and Maki, who lives a reclusive life with her mother, remains stuck in the past.

A chance meeting with Midori disrupts her world, particularly when Midori drops a couple of bombshells—she’s engaged and pregnant. However, as the events unfold, it becomes evident that Midori’s seemingly “normal” existence is far from ideal.

Battan crafts an engaging and captivating narrative around girls’ love while addressing pertinent issues.

Moreover, the art style of Run Away With Me Girl is quite distinctive, something I’d like to commend. It’s neither simplistic nor overdone, yet Battan incorporates a wealth of symbolism complementing the characters effectively. I adored it!!

15. Goodbye, My Rose Garden:

Author: Dr. Pepperco
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Goodbye, My Rose Garden is ideal for those keen on a classic historical shoujo/josei-style romance.

Set in 1900s England, the story follows Hanako, a young Japanese woman who aspires to be a novelist. Her life shifts dramatically when she becomes the personal maid to Alice Douglas, a reclusive noblewoman who poses a shocking request—asking Hanako to kill her.

But as Hanako grows closer to Alice, her initial horror morphs into empathy and a desire to assist.

Pepperco skillfully fuses historical accuracy with whimsical shoujo elements that grant the romance a dreamy yet melancholic tone.

Alice’s feelings towards Hanako carry significant yuri undertones, bordering on the fantastical for that era. The exquisite art and carefully researched backdrop further enhance the narrative.

Even with its underlying gloom, Goodbye, My Rose Garden presents a beautifully constructed tale of love, despair, and hope—definitely a yuri romance not to be missed.

16. Asumi-chan Is Interested In Lesbian Brothels

Author: Kuro Itsuki
Status: Ongoing
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

What an intriguing title, right? The name and concept captivated me at first glance.

Surprisingly, I found that Asumi-Chan Is Interested In Lesbian Brothels is genuinely sweet while striking a balance with the spicy elements.

The narrative follows Asumi, a charming yet socially awkward college student still longing for her childhood crush, Mai. Their only kiss ended on a sour note, leaving Asumi with regrets.

When rumors surface that Mai may be working at a local brothel, Asumi embarks on a unique quest to make amends by booking encounters with women at the brothel to locate Mai.

Let me clarify, this is not a low-quality title by any means. Asumi undergoes significant character development. Her experiences hold deeper meanings than initially perceived.

This journey becomes a path of self-discovery for her. Wait for her preferences to emerge.

With beautiful art and a refreshingly positive representation of sexuality, Asumi-chan offers both sweetness and spice—an excellent choice for those seeking an honest yet playful yuri tale.

17. Gunjou

Author: Ching Nakamura
Status: Completed

I’m honestly surprised Gunjou has yet to receive an English release. It’s one of the most heartfelt and melancholic stories I’ve encountered.

I initially came across this title while searching for the saddest manga, but the chaotic relationship between its protagonists rightly qualifies it as a solid yuri recommendation.

The narrative follows two unnamed women (a blonde and a brunette), fleeing after the blonde kills the brunette’s abusive husband at her request. 

The blonde does this out of love for the brunette, who cannot reciprocate her feelings, leaving their relationship marked by dependence, obsession, and manipulation.

Hope for a romantic development is slim, but – many things go unsaid, providing whisperings of possibility. But hope can be a dangerous thing. It can drive one mad…

Tissues should be at the ready.

18. Whispered Words

Author: Takashi Ikeda
Status: Completed
English Release: One Peace Books

Whispered Words (Sasameki Koto) is a slow-burn romance that initiates with lightheartedness but evolves into the leads’ struggles and the issues they face.

While it features high school couples, what distinguishes this series is its strong ensemble of queer-coded characters. The story adeptly addresses the complexities of homosexuality!

Sumika Murasame, a tall and athletic girl often referred to as “Violence Murasame” for her imposing nature, harbors unrequited feelings for her best friend, Ushio Kazama.

Ironically, Ushio, who is drawn to cute girls, remains oblivious to Sumika’s affections and continually shares her latest crushes with her.

As their freshman year progresses, they meet Tomoe and Miyako, who happen to be a lesbian couple. Their presence inspires the desire to create a club for lesbian girls.

This is undoubtedly among the well-regarded titles in the yuri genre! You won’t regret picking this one up.

19. Our Teachers Are Dating

Author: Pikachi Ohi
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

This manga excels with its wholesome depiction of a same-sex romance, absent of standard conflicts or societal biases.

The supporting cast showcases significant support, providing a backdrop for an utterly adorable romance between two working women, accompanied by some steamy moments.

It centers around Asuka Hayama, a dedicated physical education instructor, and Saki Terano, a cheerful biology teacher. Their romantic relationship flourishes discreetly within the school atmosphere, buoyed by the encouragement of colleagues and students.

This manga serves as a delightful burst of happiness for your soul. No more, no less. Don’t anticipate profound character evolution.

For those searching for a joyous yuri narrative highlighting the sweetness of love and community support, Our Teachers Are Dating! should be on your reading list.

20. Citrus

Author: Saburouta
Status: Completed
English Release: Seven Seas Entertainment

Before diving in, a cautionary note—Citrus features themes of step-sister romance, sporadic non-consensual situations, and borderline abusive dynamics. If these elements are deal-breakers, you might want to pass on this title.

The story follows Yuzu Aihara, a spontaneous city girl thrust into a conservative all-girls school following her mother’s remarriage.

Yuzu’s spirited personality clashes with Mei Aihara, the stern and cold student council president. The twist? Mei is now her step-sister, making for a complex dynamic as their relationship evolves post a forceful kiss from Mei.

As events spiral, Yuzu discovers she has feelings for Mei, leading them to explore their identities together.

Citrus is melodramatic, chaotic, and occasionally veers into softcore hentai territory. Its high school setting and the typical cold-warm pairing are overused tropes, with the story sometimes mishandling its darker themes.

It’s divisive for a reason!

Be it love it or hate it, Citrus occupies a notable position in the yuri genre and even achieved a spot on the NYT best-seller list. You may find it more enjoyable than I did!

This was one of my initial entries into this genre. Consequently, I share a special love-hate relationship with Citrus!

Conclusion:

This concludes the article! It’s evident that this list will expand, as I continue to discover remarkable titles. One I’m particularly eager about is Yen Press’ Anemone Feels the Heat, slated for March 2025.

There are a few others on my radar, including After Hours, which I aim to delve into soon.

What about you? I’d love to hear your favorite lesbian/yuri manga recommendations in the comments below!